The Association for Advancing Automation’s latest report, however, shows increased adoption of robotic technology by non-automotive companies

ANN ARBOR, Michigan – Robot sales in North America were down 6% in the first quarter of 2024 compared to the same period last year. According to the Association for Advancing Automation, companies purchased 8,582 robots from January through March, valued at $494 million. While overall orders decreased during this time period, orders from non-automotive companies grew 16% over Q1 2023.

"North American robot orders are showing signs of improvement as we approach the mid-way point of the year," said Alex Shikany, Vice President of Membership & Market Intelligence, A3. "It's particularly encouraging to see that non-automotive customers are continuing to grow their adoption of robots, demonstrating the expanding reach and impact of automation across various industries.”

“As we look ahead, several indicators suggest that the second half of 2024 will outperform the first,” Shikany added. “Notably, our record attendance at Automate 2024 is a testament to the rising interest in robots and automation technology, surpassing any level of engagement we've seen at previous events. This enthusiasm and investment from a diverse range of sectors underscore the vital role automation plays in driving innovation and efficiency in today's market."

Non-Automotive Orders on the Rise

Non-automotive customers ordered 4,096 robots in the first quarter, 48% of total orders. Among these customers, the greatest growth in orders between Q1 2023 and Q1 2024 was seen in food & consumer goods (120%), followed by life sciences, pharmaceutical & biomedical (72%) and metals (46%).

“Industrial automation is sculpting the future of work and production across myriad industries, truly amplifying human ingenuity rather than replacing it,” said Jeff Burnstein, president of A3. “With advancements in robotics, artificial intelligence (AI) and connectivity, we’re witnessing a paradigm shift that’s reshaping industries, driving productivity and unlocking new possibilities for growth. It’s clearly not just a trend but the cornerstone of modern manufacturing.”

More detailed information about the Q1 orders, including graphs and market breakouts, is available upon request.

About Association for Advancing Automation (A3)

The Association for Advancing Automation (A3) is the leading global advocate for the benefits of automating. A3 promotes automation technologies and ideas that transform the way business is done. Members of A3 represent over 1,300 manufacturers, component suppliers, system integrators, end users, academic institutions, research groups and consulting firms that drive automation forward worldwide.

A3 hosts a number of industry-leading events, including the International Robot Safety Conference (October 1-3, Cincinnati, OH); The Humanoid Robot Forum (Oct 7, 2024, Memphis, TN) Autonomous Mobile Robot & Logistics Conference (October 8-10, 2024, Memphis, TN); AI & Smart Automation Conference (November 12-13, 2024, Atlanta, GA), and the A3 Business Forum (January 20-22, 2025, Orlando, FL) and Automate (May 12-15, 2025, in Detroit, MI);.

For More Information
Deb Kling
Association for Advancing Automation
(734) 929-3264

Kelly Wanlass
HCI Marketing and Communications, Inc.
(801) 602-4723